Heat wave in Germany: Red alert for millions of citizens!

Heat wave in Germany: Red alert for millions of citizens!

Germany is in the midst of a relentless heat wave that is reaching its peak this week. On Tuesday, July 1, temperatures of 30 to 38 degrees were recorded across the country, while Wednesday, July 2, could be even hotter in many regions, with peaks of up to 38 degrees. The south and southwest of the country are particularly affected, where temperatures could even exceed 40 degrees. AZ Online reports that the German Weather Service (DWD) is warning of extreme heat as well as possible thunderstorms and strong squalls, particularly in Upper Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg.

The nights also become unbearable because in many places the temperatures do not drop below 20 degrees, which is considered a health risk. An official heat warning has been issued for large parts of Germany. This extreme heat wave could threaten the record of 41.2 degrees set in 2019, making the situation even more dramatic. Cooling is expected from Thursday July 3rd, with temperatures below 30 degrees, with the northwest and north potentially dropping to 20 to 25 degrees, while up to 34 degrees is still possible in the southeast.

Health risks and urgent need for action

The heat wave is not only unpleasant, but also extremely dangerous, especially for vulnerable groups. The health risks increase dramatically, as well Mercury notes. Older people, children and people with previous illnesses are particularly at risk. Possible health consequences include circulatory failure, heat strokes and dehydration, which could lead to overload, especially in hospitals and care facilities.

The ultra-rapid weather changes are part of a larger problem: climate change. According to that Deutschlandfunk The frequency and intensity of heat waves is increasing due to climate change, which not only leads to an increase in heat-related deaths, but also increases the risk of infectious diseases such as dengue or Zika fever, as dangerous mosquito species have established themselves in Germany.

Preventive measures required

The calls for a nationwide heat protection plan are getting louder. In this context, attention is drawn to the need for emergency concepts, public cooling zones, warning systems for risk groups and ensuring the supply of drinking water. In some European countries, such as France, national programs to support older people during heatwaves are already in place. In order to take preventive measures, Germany urgently needs to follow suit to minimize the number of heat-related health problems.

In summary, it can be said that the coming days in Germany will place an enormous strain on health. The population is well advised to prepare for the heat wave and, above all, to keep an eye on vulnerable groups. Climate change is not just an abstract threat, but is already affecting us all today, as current developments impressively show.